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JARC is a Volunteer Exam Coordinator (or simply VEC.) This means that we report test results directly
to the FCC. We have been a volunteer examination group for this area since 1984, the year that the VE program began. While other
local groups have come and gone our group has been consistently giving tests since its first session at the New Orleans Hamfest
in the fall of 1984. In fact, some of the original volunteer examiners are still with the group. The VEC testing sessions are typically held at our clubhouse located in Metairie, LA at the Wally Pontiff Playground (formerly Metairie Playground.) Since we are currently under renovation, we are holding test sessions at East Jefferson General Hospital. Any scheduled test dates can be found on the home page. If you do not see any announced dates, drop us an email and we will either direct you to the nearest VE session or advise our anticipated next testing date. We electronically submit the test results to the FCC very soon after your testing is completed, usually the next business day. This ensures the fastest possible route for getting your license. You may check the FCC's Universal Licensing System for your call sign as early has 2-3 business days after you pass your test. You do not have to wait for your hard copy of your license to arrive. As soon as it shows up in the ULS, you are allowed to transmit with your earned privileges. If you're reading this because you're ready to come take the test, here are a few pointers. Our address, a map, and directions to our clubhouse is located in the "Contact Us" section at the top of this page. You can e-mail us regarding testing inquiries by clicking here.Feel free to contact any of our members if you still need assistance in locating us. You are required to bring your driver's license (or other government issued photo identification) to take the test. Also needed is a copy of your present amateur radio license if you are upgrading. The fee for the test is currently $14. This fee is strictly to cover the cost of materials associated with producing the test. It is not used for any level of profit. Also, be sure to pack your brain and we wish you the best of luck on test day! If you're looking to work on your testing skills, the ARRL sells many books. For the budget minded there are several sites which offer free on-line practice testing. A few are QRZ.com, AA9PW.com, and eHam.net. There are literally hundreds of these on the internet, try a Google search for "Amateur Radio Practice Exam" You will find plenty. |
